PhD Candidate in Metabolic Discovery and Mechanistic Physiology using Exhalomics in Dairy Cows

PhD Position in Metabolic Discovery and Mechanistic Physiology using Exhalomics in Dairy Cows

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Animal Nutrition group at ETH Zurich invites applications for a PhD position focused on the interface of ruminant nutrition, animal health, and physiological phenotyping using the emerging non-invasive exhalomics approach (exhaled breath metabolomics). This research program integrates animal experiments with advanced analytical techniques and bioinformatics to enhance the understanding and monitoring of physiological metabolism in dairy cows. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team led by Mutian Niu, gaining access to a state-of-the-art dairy research facility, a metabolic center, and high-resolution analytical platforms.

Project Background

The PhD student will engage in three major research components centered around exhalomics and its application to animal physiology and health:

• Nutrient Metabolism in Dairy Cows: Conduct controlled nutritional experiments to evaluate how dietary factors influence rumen function and metabolic responses.
• Immune Challenges and Early Detection of Health Perturbations: Participate in immune-related animal experiments using LPS challenge to examine how inflammatory states alter metabolic signatures in dairy cows.
• Large-Scale Exhalomics in Dairy Cows: Conduct an observational study comparing exhaled-breath profiles of healthy and hospitalized animals.

All components will involve high-resolution mass-spectrometry and complementary data streams to explore how exhaled metabolites reflect physiological status.

Job Description

• Conduct in vivo/in vitro experiments in collaboration with the existing experienced team.
• Perform physiological and metabolic sampling (rumen, breath, blood, fecal, urine, milk).
• Operate, integrate, extract, and interpret data from high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.
• Organize, manage, and analyze large datasets including bioinformatics.
• Communicate scientific results in written and oral form, including conference presentations.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate actively in group meetings and collaborative research discussions.
• Support other team members in carrying out their animal experiments/projects.

Profile

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Animal Science, Biology, Physiology, Veterinary Science, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
• Ability to perform structured, well-documented experimental work.
• Strong motivation to work with animals.
• Curiosity for science.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficient in English language.

Desired (but not required) Skills

• Experience with nutritional, immunological (LPS), or metabolic models in animals.
• Familiarity with laboratory techniques in biochemistry, metabolomics, or bioinformatics.
• Exposure to mass spectrometry or analytical chemistry tools.
• Proficiency in statistical, data science, or bioinformatics tools.

Workplace

Join us in a stimulating research environment within a world-leading institution. We offer competitive salaries in accordance with ETH Zurich standards, flexible working hours, and a commitment to work-life balance.

We Offer

• A stimulating research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and datasets.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including conferences and collaborations with renowned research organizations and industry partners.
• A competitive salary, flexible working hours, and support for work-life balance.
• Membership in a diverse, international team committed to innovative and impactful science.

At ETH Zurich, we are dedicated to fostering a diverse faculty and staff. We promote equality of opportunity and seek candidates who are committed to creating an inclusive environment.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture and promotes equality of opportunity. We nurture a working and learning environment that respects the rights and dignity of all our staff and students. We are also committed to sustainability and are working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to your online application, which should include:

• A cover letter outlining your motivation and fit for the role.
• A detailed CV with publication list and relevant experience.
• BSc and MSc transcripts.
• A copy of your Master thesis (if available).
• Contact details for 2-3 professional references.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. Renowned for excellent education, cutting-edge research, and the transfer of new knowledge into society, ETH Zurich is home to over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries. Located in the heart of Europe, we collaborate globally to develop solutions for today's and tomorrow's challenges.